Home improvement is an endeavor that requires making a lot of choices about products you might never have considered before. As one of the most busy and visible rooms in a home, it’s important to make your kitchen feel welcoming, well-considered, and ultimately functional. The countertops you choose will play a large part in the end result. You want materials that will reflect your taste and complement your lifestyle, but you also want a good return on your investment. What is the best countertop for kitchens? The list below may help you decide.
Types of Countertops
When it comes to countertops, you’ll find an exciting variety of materials to choose from. These are some of the most popular options:
Wood is warm and welcoming, giving countertops a cozy, rustic feel. You can select from a wide selection of textures, grains, and finishes.
Solid-Surface materials are a blend of acrylic and resin pressed into sheets, then shaped. This type of countertop has been around since the 1950s and was meant to imitate the look of stone countertops, but at less expense.
Laminates are easy to clean and maintain. These plastic-and-particleboard (or kraft paper)-layered countertops are very popular for their price point in addition to the many colors, patterns, and finishes available.
Tile – usually ceramic, glass, and porcelain – can provide a unique and charming look, and can be ordered in a staggering array of designs, shapes, and colors.
Engineered Stone includes quartz countertops, which are actually quartz particles bonded with resin. It’s non-porous and resistant to stains and scratches.
Natural Stone like granite, marble, and soapstone are exceptionally beautiful and enduringly stylish. The innate variations in natural stone make each piece truly unique.
What’s the Best Countertop for Kitchens?
The answer to that question depends most on your needs and lifestyle. Some countertops require a bit of care and maintenance periodically to keep them in top shape while others only need to be wiped down after use. There’s no question, however, that natural stone countertops provide the best balance of style, durability, and ROI. They’re sleek and elegant, and perfect for the trials of daily use. They’re resistant to damage from heat and cold, easy to clean, and with proper upkeep will last much longer than other materials before needing to be replaced.
As an added benefit, natural stone countertops also add the most value to a house in terms of kitchen upgrades and are very appealing to potential buyers if or when you decide to sell.
At Old Stone Countertops, we specialize in fitting and installing the best countertops for kitchens and bathrooms, including custom-fit natural stone to complement your style and vision for a gorgeous and inviting home. View our work, then contact us to set up an appointment with one of our team.